Big data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) provide a valuable opportunity for growth to Bike Share Schemes that have been deployed and developed across the six continents. Both schemes that are in the planning stages and ones that have already been deployed can benefit from leveraging big data and AI

Operators looking to drive growth to their schemes need AI to sort through vast amounts of data. If you combine millions of different criteria across a large urban area, the sheer number of possibilities can be overwhelming.

Every element matters and can influence where bikes are dropped and congestion occurs. In the worst-case scenarios, a rider borrows a bike but can’t find a dock and must travel away from their destination to drop it off and when they return there are no bikes remaining.

Data and AI is key to avoiding this situation. It ensures rider satisfaction by predicting demand in popular areas and managing supply. Only with data and AI technology can Bike Share Schemes look to improve existing processes, operations and logistics, and drive growth to their operations.

Going forward, data needs to be more accessible to operators. Open data allows Bike Share Scheme operators to deliver a transport solution that works for all. Data ensures bikes are available when and where it’s needed to support the growth of Bike Share Scheme deployments around the world.

Regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will still be paramount in the push for the openness of data. Cities, operators and all others involved have a duty to follow secure practices and take necessary steps in protecting user information.

Data and AI are ready to help operators to adapt and grow their schemes while refining and simplifying how they manage distribution.

For operators, getting started is simple:

Evaluate long and short-term goals and growth objectives

Explore what AI-based management platforms are available

Look at what open data, shared data and Smart City initiative have been launched or are being developed locally

Collaborate with AI experts and begin the journey towards smarter and more efficient Bike Share Schemes